CARLSBAD >> The Carlsbad junior golf camp was in full swing this week, roaming across the greens at Lake Carlsbad Golf Course.

About 40 boys and girls have registered for the annual camp at this point, and they are learning everything from putting and hitting the long drive to golf etiquette.

They also learned how to play the game while responding to winds, playing in sand traps and deciding accordingly which club to use in different situations.

"You actually have a chance to be in action while using what you learn," 12-year-old Chassity Griego said, who's attended the camp the past three years.

Carlsbad coach Buddy Corrazi, assistant coaches Ken Stevens and Jeff Keller and PGA professional John Heaton are the lead instructors for the camp.

Corrazi said it's important that the kids learn the basics and how to play with patience.

"All-in-all, I think it's a good experience for them," Corrazi said. "You can see out here at the municipal golf course, there's men and women out here well into their 60s and 70s, so it's considered a lifetime sport.

"It's good for us to give (the kids) the foundation of it so they can play with grandma and grandpa, mom and dad, and learn the rules. Those are the things we try to teach. In order to be a good golfer, you have to give it a little bit of time."

Twelve-year-old Caedon Carrasco said it's "really helpful" to learn from the Carlsbad coaching staff and the high school players first-hand.

Carrasco also said his original set of clubs are becoming too small for him to use, so Corrazi's letting him borrow some spare clubs.

So far, Carrasco said his favorite exercise has been putting.

"It's peaceful when you're trying to get it into the hole. It's not really competitive," Carrasco said. "When I first started, it took me probably five strokes to get it into the hole. And now it only take me two. I'm really impressed."

The camp also attracted those looking to try something new or different. It sparked 10-year-old Gavin Dugas' interest.

"I just wanted to do it before I have to leave to go back home for vacation," said Dugas, originally from Louisiana.

Dugas also said his father works at Lake Carlsbad Golf Course and helped him get all signed up.

Dugas said he currently enjoys "all the small fun activities."

"I've used every club in my bag so far," Dugas said.

The camp runs Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays through June 18. It's available to boys and girls in grades one through nine.

Those going all the way up to fourth grade hit the greens for the sessions, followed by those in grades five through nine.

Corrazi said registration will continue through next week. He said his goal for the camp is to still have 60 players registered by then.

The camp will resume at 8 a.m. next Tuesday.

Current-Argus Sports Editor Matt Hollinshead may be reached at 575-628-5518.